A Bowl of Aloha: Hawaiian Beef Stew

For real, there is nothing better on a cold night than a warm bowl of stew. Hawaiian Beef Stew is a whole new kind of comfort food. Think tender beef that melts in your mouth, hearty chunks of carrots and potatoes, and a rich, tomato-based gravy with a touch of island-inspired sweetness. Whether you’re making it in an Instant Pot or a slow cooker, this Hawaiian Beef Stew recipe is easy, delicious, and perfect for family dinners or meal prep.

This dish has it all—flavor, heartiness, and versatility. Plus, you’ve got options! If you’re in a rush, the Instant Pot is your best friend. If you want to let the flavors slowly build all day, the slow cooker is the way to go. Either way, this recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner and special enough for family gatherings. Ready to cook up some aloha? Let’s get started!

What Makes the BEST Hawaiian Beef Stew So Special?

Here’s the thing about Hawaiian Beef Stew: it’s not just any beef stew. Sure, it starts with the same basics—beef, vegetables, and broth—but it’s got a unique island twist that makes it stand out.

To begin, the tomato-based gravy has soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce added to it to make it taste more delicious. After that, you can add pineapple chunks for a sweet, tropical touch. Hawaiian Beef Stew stands out because it has just the right amount of salty and sweet.

Also, do not forget how flexible it is. This dish works either way, whether you like your stew a little thicker or more brothy. It is also great for making ahead of time because the tastes are even better the next day. There is really no reason why this dish has become a family favorite in so many homes.

Hawaiian Beef Stew Ingredients: Everything You’ll Need for This Recipe

Before you dive into cooking, let’s make sure you’ve got everything you need. Hawaiian Beef Stew is all about simple ingredients that come together in a big way.

Main Ingredients:

• 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into bite-sized cubes
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for coating the beef)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or your preferred cooking oil)
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 3 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (including juices)
• 4 cups beef broth (low-sodium is ideal)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1 cup pineapple chunks (for a touch of sweetness)
• 1 bell pepper, diced (for extra flavor and color)

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Hawaiian Beef Stew Recipe

Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s talk about how to make this dish. Whether you’re using an Instant Pot or a slow cooker, the process is super straightforward.

Instant Pot Method

1. Prep Your Beef:
   Start by coating your beef cubes in flour. This not only helps thicken the stew later but also gives the beef a golden, flavorful crust.
2. Sear the Beef:
   Turn the Instant Pot to the sauté setting and add the olive oil. Once it’s hot, brown the beef cubes in batches. Don’t overcrowd the pot—give the pieces some space so they get a nice crust. Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside.
3. Build the Flavor Base:
   Add the diced onions and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Then stir in the tomato paste, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. This is where the magic begins—these ingredients lay the foundation for that rich, savory gravy.
4. Add the Rest:
   Return the beef to the pot, along with the carrots, potatoes, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Sprinkle in the thyme, and don’t forget the salt and pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine.
5. Pressure Cook:
   Secure the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 35 minutes. Once done, allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then carefully vent the rest manually.
6. Final Touches:
   If you like your stew on the thicker side, turn on the sauté function and let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes to reduce.
7. Serve:
   Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or green onions if you’re feeling fancy. Grab a spoon and enjoy!

Slow Cooker Method

1. Brown the Beef:
   Cook the beef cubes in a hot pan with olive oil, just like in the Instant Pot method. Coat them in flour first. You do not have to do this step, but believe me, it makes the dish taste so much better.
2. Layer the Ingredients:
   Stack the potatoes, onions, garlic, carrots, and cooked beef in the slow cooker. Add the diced tomatoes, meat broth, and all of the spices. To mix everything, stir it all together.
3. Set It and Forget It:
   Put the lid on top and set the timer for 8 hours on low or 4 hours on high. But if you are in a hurry, the high setting will do. The low-and-slow method makes the beef very soft.
4. Add Optional Ingredients:
   Put fruit or bell peppers in during the last hour of cooking if you want to. This keeps them from getting too soft or making the other flavors taste weak.
5. Serve:
   After it is done, stir the pot well and taste it to see if it needs more salt. Serve hot with your best sides (we will talk about those in a moment).

Why This Hawaiian Beef Stew Recipe Stands Out

Hawaiin beef stew is more than just a meal; it is an event. It is hearty and warm, but there is something special about it that makes it fun. It is a meal that feels both familiar and new because of the tender beef, rich gravy, and bright vegetables.

Plus, it is so ridiculously simple to set up. This recipe is almost perfect, no matter how experienced you are with slow cookers or Instant Pots. The best part? You can change everything about it. Want to add more greens? Do it. Would you like some heat? Add some hot pepper flakes. You can really make it your own.

Tips for Making the Perfect Hawaiian-Style Beef Stew

Now that we’ve gone over how to make it, let me share a few tips I’ve learned over the years to help you get the best possible results. These little details make a big difference!

1. Choose the Right Beef:
   Stick with cuts like chuck roast or brisket. They have enough fat to stay tender during long cooking times. Avoid lean cuts like sirloin—they dry out quickly and can get tough.
2. Browning Matters:
   I know it’s tempting to skip the browning step, especially if you’re in a rush. But trust me, it’s worth the extra few minutes. Browning the beef adds depth of flavor to the stew that you just can’t get otherwise.
3. Thick or Thin? Your Choice:
   If you like a thicker stew, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it in during the last few minutes of cooking. For a thinner gravy, just stick with the recipe as-is.
4. Season as You Go:
   Taste the stew before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, or soy sauce as needed. Sometimes the beef broth can vary in saltiness, so it’s good to check.
5. Add Pineapple Carefully:
   If you’re adding pineapple chunks, make sure to add them near the end of cooking. This keeps them from breaking down too much and overpowering the dish.

Serving Suggestions: What Goes with Hawaiian Beef Stew?

Hawaiian Beef Stew is a meal all on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can take it to the next level. Here are a few ideas to round out your plate:

• Steamed White Rice:
  This is the classic pairing. The rice soaks up all that rich, savory gravy, and it’s just chef’s kiss.
• Hawaiian Sweet Rolls:
  Soft, slightly sweet, and perfect for sopping up the last bits of gravy from your bowl.
• Mac Salad:
  If you’ve ever been to a Hawaiian plate lunch spot, you know mac salad is non-negotiable. Its creamy, cool texture balances the richness of the stew beautifully.
• Green Salad or Quinoa:
  For a lighter option, a simple green salad or quinoa on the side works great. Check out my guide on how to cook quinoa for a healthy side dish for an easy recipe.

And honestly, if you’re just eating it on its own with a spoon, that’s perfectly fine too. This stew doesn’t need much help to shine!

Why You’ll Love Making Hawaiian Beef Stew

If you’re not already convinced to try this recipe, let me give you one more reason: it’s foolproof. Whether you’re an experienced home cook or someone who’s just starting out, this recipe is forgiving, easy to follow, and pretty much impossible to mess up.

It’s also the kind of dish that brings people together. Serve this at a family dinner, and I guarantee you’ll have everyone sitting around the table, talking, laughing, and going back for seconds. Plus, the leftovers taste even better the next day, making it a great option for meal prep.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I freeze Hawaiian Beef Stew?
Absolutely! This stew freezes beautifully. Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It’ll keep for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

2. What can I use instead of beef chuck?
If you can’t find beef chuck, short ribs or brisket work just as well. They’re both flavorful and become tender with slow cooking.

3. How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
It’s super easy! Just swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend or skip the flour altogether. You can also use gluten-free soy sauce.

4. Can I add other vegetables?
Of course! Sweet potatoes, celery, or even mushrooms are great additions. Just keep in mind that softer veggies like zucchini should be added near the end of cooking so they don’t turn to mush.

5. Is pineapple really necessary?
Not at all! Pineapple is optional, and the stew is just as delicious without it. That said, if you’re curious, give it a try—you might be surprised at how well the sweetness works with the savory flavors.

Author Notes: Why This Recipe Means So Much

I’ve been making variations of this stew for years, and it never fails to impress. The first time I tried Hawaiian Beef Stew, it was during a trip to Hawaii, and it immediately reminded me of the stews my mom used to make—but with a little extra magic.

I’ve since made this recipe my own, tweaking it over time to get the flavors just right. It’s now a regular in my dinner rotation, especially during cooler months when I want something hearty and comforting. Every time I make it, it takes me back to those warm, breezy nights in Hawaii.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it—the BEST Hawaiian Beef Stew recipe that’ll bring a little bit of island comfort to your dinner table. It’s rich, hearty, and packed with flavor, but still easy enough to make on a busy weeknight. Whether you choose the Instant Pot or slow cooker method, you’re in for a treat.

Give this recipe a try, and let me know how it turns out. Did you add pineapple? Try a fun variation? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below. Happy cooking, and aloha! 🌺